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Changey Falls

Kalimpong, West Bengal, India
Overview: Changey Falls is a spectacular waterfall located near the village of Kolakham, within the Kalimpong district. It is known as the highest altitude waterfall in North Bengal, plunging from a height of about 400 feet. The journey to the falls involves a scenic drive through pine forests follo wed by a steep 900-foot downhill trek on a well-paved trail. The sound of the gushing water can be heard long before the falls come into view. The area is surrounded by dense greenery and the Neora Valley National Park, offering a pristine natural environment. The water is crystal clear and cold, forming a small pool at the bottom where visitors can relax. The mist from the falls creates a cooling effect even during the summer months. It is a popular spot for photographers and adventure enthusiasts. The tranquility of the location is interrupted only by the roar of the water and the songs of forest birds. It is often visited as part of a circuit including Lava and Loleygaon.

General information

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    Ideal Duration:

    2 to 3 Hours
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    Place Type:

    Waterfall / Nature
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    Entry Fees:

    Entry Fee: Usually free, but a local parking fee of INR 50 may apply.

    Guide Fee: Optional guides may charge INR 200. ...
    Entry Fee: Usually free, but a local parking fee of INR 50 may apply.

    Guide Fee: Optional guides may charge INR 200.
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    Timing:

    Daily Hours: 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM.

    Ideal Time: 10:00 AM to 02:00 PM.

    Season: Best visited post-monsoon. ...
    Daily Hours: 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM.

    Ideal Time: 10:00 AM to 02:00 PM.

    Season: Best visited post-monsoon.
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    Special Events:

    Monsoon Beauty: While difficult to reach, the falls are at their peak in August.

    Environment Day: Local schools often hold cleanup drives here. ...
    Monsoon Beauty: While difficult to reach, the falls are at their peak in August.

    Environment Day: Local schools often hold cleanup drives here.
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    Best Photo Spots:

    The Viewing Deck: Perfect for a full-length shot of the waterfall.

    Forest Trail: The stairs surrounded by tall pines provide a great aesthetic. ...
    The Viewing Deck: Perfect for a full-length shot of the waterfall.

    Forest Trail: The stairs surrounded by tall pines provide a great aesthetic.

Photo Gallery

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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens
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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens
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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens
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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens
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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens

Things To Do

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    Trekking: The 900-foot trek down and back up is exhilarating.

    Nature Photography: Capture the long-exposure shots of the falls.

    Bird Watching: Bring a camera for forest bird species.

    Relaxation: Sit by the rocks and enjoy the mist.

    Picnic: Small snacks can be enjoyed near the viewing area.

    Exploration: Check out the nearby Kolakham village.

    Meditation: The white noise of the water is perfect for focus. ...
    Trekking: The 900-foot trek down and back up is exhilarating.

    Nature Photography: Capture the long-exposure shots of the falls.

    Bird Watching: Bring a camera for forest bird species.

    Relaxation: Sit by the rocks and enjoy the mist.

    Picnic: Small snacks can be enjoyed near the viewing area.

    Exploration: Check out the nearby Kolakham village.

    Meditation: The white noise of the water is perfect for focus.

Hotels

● Changey Falls Retreat


Address: Lava, Kalimpong

Distance: 0.5 km

Details: Experience tranquility at Changey Falls Retreat. This property offers cozy rooms with scenic mountain views, perfect for nature lovers. Facilities inc...

● Chhangay Retreat


Address: Lava, Kalimpong

Distance: 0.2 km

Details: Chhangay Retreat is located directly opposite the falls, making it the most convenient stay for waterfall enthusiasts. It features cozy cottages with ...

● Glaciers Homestay


Address: Kolakham, Kalimpong

Distance: 2.1 km

Details: Glaciers Homestay is a charming budget option that provides comfort and convenience. Rooms are simple yet clean, featuring mountain views and basic am...

● Kolakham Hillcrest Homestay


Address: Kolakham, Kalimpong

Distance: 2.4 km

Details: Kolakham Hillcrest Homestay is situated at a high vantage point, offering the best views of the valley. The property includes a shared dining hall and...

● Kolakham Himalayan Homestay


Address: Kolakham, Kalimpong

Distance: 2.3 km

Details: Kolakham Himalayan Homestay provides a simple, warm environment for travelers. Rooms are designed with wood accents, giving a rustic feel, while basic...

● Kolakham Nature View


Address: Kolakham, Kalimpong

Distance: 2.2 km

Details: Kolakham Nature View provides a serene retreat amidst dense forests. The property focuses on sustainability and natural beauty, offering rooms that op...

● Kolakham Samsuhang Homestay


Address: Kolakham, Kalimpong

Distance: 2.0 km

Details: Kolakham Samsuhang Homestay offers an authentic local experience. Nestled in a lush setting, it features traditional architecture with modern comfort....

● Rishop - Zivaan Stay


Address: Rishop, Kalimpong

Distance: 3.0 km

Details: Zivaan Stay is a sophisticated mountain retreat offering premium hospitality. With beautifully decorated interiors and modern room amenities, it cater...

● SILVERBERRY Homestay


Address: Kolakham, Kalimpong

Distance: 2.5 km

Details: SILVERBERRY Homestay is a modern homestay that offers an elevated experience. It features spacious rooms with attached bathrooms, a well-maintained ga...

● Skyline Retreat


Address: Lava Road, Kalimpong

Distance: 1.2 km

Details: Skyline Retreat is a premium stay known for its breathtaking vistas. Designed for relaxation, it features well-appointed rooms with large windows. Gue...

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Restaurants

● Art Cafe


Address: Thana Dara, Kalimpong

Distance: 17 km

Details: Art Cafe is a bohemian-style hillside venue known for its stunning views and creative decor. It is a perfect spot for brunch and snacks. The cafe is f...

Food List: Veggie Pizza', 'Chicken Sausage Pizza', 'Phambi', ...

● Centre Point


Address: Kalimpong, West Bengal

Distance: 17 km

Details: Centre Point is known for its friendly staff and authentic flavor profiles. It offers a variety of Indian and regional dishes. Guests often praise the...

Food List: Chicken Curry', 'Veg Thali', 'Dal Fry', 'Jeera Ric...

● Gompu's


Address: Damber Chowk, Kalimpong

Distance: 17 km

Details: A legendary establishment operating since the early 1900s, Gompu's is a local favorite. It is famous for its historical legacy and hearty, homestyle m...

Food List: Pork Momos', 'Pork Thukpa', 'Chicken Cutlet', 'Por...

● Hongkong


Address: D.S. Gurung Road, Kalimpong

Distance: 17 km

Details: Located in the heart of the market, Hongkong Restaurant is a budget-friendly spot for quick bites. It is popular for its reliable Chinese fare and pro...

Food List: Chilli Garlic Noodles', 'Schezwan Chicken', 'Sprin...

● King Thai


Address: Super Market, Kalimpong

Distance: 17 km

Details: King Thai provides a fusion of flavors, serving Thai, Chinese, and Nepali dishes. The restaurant features a modern aesthetic and is well-regarded for ...

Food List: Tandoori Roti', 'Dal Makhani', 'Paneer Butter Masa...

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Resturants

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Information

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    Why Famous:

    Height: Famous as the tallest waterfall in the region.

    Bird Sanctuary: Known for sightings of the Blue Whistling Thrush and Flycatchers. ...
    Height: Famous as the tallest waterfall in the region.

    Bird Sanctuary: Known for sightings of the Blue Whistling Thrush and Flycatchers.
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    Architecture:

    Natural Amphitheater:

    Rock and Water Harmony Structure: The trail leading down has concrete steps and railings for safety.

    Dimension: The waterfall has a vertical drop of approximately 300 to 400 feet.
    Natural Amphitheater:

    Rock and Water Harmony Structure: The trail leading down has concrete steps and railings for safety.

    Dimension: The waterfall has a vertical drop of approximately 300 to 400 feet.

    Platform: A viewing deck at the bottom measures about 15x15 feet.
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    How To Reach:

    By Air: Bagdogra (110 km).

    By Train: NJP (105 km).

    By Road: 14 km from Lava village.

    By Local Transport: Private four-wheel-drive vehicles (Sumo/Bolero) are required for the...
    By Air: Bagdogra (110 km).

    By Train: NJP (105 km).

    By Road: 14 km from Lava village.

    By Local Transport: Private four-wheel-drive vehicles (Sumo/Bolero) are required for the rough roads.
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    Weather and Best Time to Visit:

    Post-Monsoon: October to December for high water volume.

    Summer: March to June for pleasant weather.

    Morning: Best light for the falls. ...
    Post-Monsoon: October to December for high water volume.

    Summer: March to June for pleasant weather.

    Morning: Best light for the falls.
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    Near Tourist Places:

    Lava (14 km), Kolakham (4 km), Neora Valley (10 km), Loleygaon (35 km), Rishyap (18 km), Kalimpong (45 km), Pedong (35 km), Sillery Gaon (40 km), Tiffin Dara (15 km), Ghanti Dara (16 km).

Tourism Tips

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    Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for the slippery trek.

    Physical Fitness: The trek back up is steep; not recommended for elderly with knee issues.

    Rain Gear: Carry a raincoat as the weather near t...
    Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for the slippery trek.

    Physical Fitness: The trek back up is steep; not recommended for elderly with knee issues.

    Rain Gear: Carry a raincoat as the weather near the forest is unpredictable.

    Supplies: Carry water and snacks as there are limited shops at the bottom.

Reviews

FAQs

Ans:- A trip from Lava to Changey Falls and back usually takes about 3 to 4 hours. This includes the 45-minute drive each way and about 1.5 to 2 hours for the trek and spending time at the waterfall. If you are starting from Kalimpong town, you should plan for a full-day excursion as the drive to Lava alone takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on road conditions.

Ans:- Changey Falls is located near the small hamlet of Kolakham, which is about 10 kilometers from Lava in the Kalimpong district. It is tucked away in the deep forests of the Neora Valley National Park. The waterfall is one of the highest in the region, falling from a height of about 300 to 400 feet, making it a spectacular sight for nature lovers and trekkers.

Ans:- Children who can walk for about 30 minutes or be carried can visit the falls. For the elderly, it depends on their mobility. The uphill climb back to the car park can be strenuous. There are a few benches along the path where one can rest. If an elderly person has heart or respiratory issues, they should consult their doctor before attempting the trek due to the altitude and exertion.

Ans:- From Lava, you can hire a local four-wheel-drive vehicle to reach the last motorable point, which is about 10 kilometers away. From there, you have to undertake a short but steep trek of about 900 meters to reach the base of the falls. The trek goes through a well-marked but rocky path with stairs in some sections. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes to walk down to the waterfall.

Ans:- It is important to wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the trail can be damp and slippery. Comfortable sports clothing or trekking pants are recommended. Since the falls are located in a shaded forest area, it can be cooler than the surrounding town, so carrying a light jacket is a good idea. During the rainy season, carrying a raincoat and using insect repellent for leeches is a must.

Ans:- The best time to visit Changey Falls is during the post-monsoon months of October and November, or in the spring months of March to May. During these times, the waterfall has a good volume of water and the weather is pleasant for trekking. In the monsoon, the falls are thunderous and magnificent, but the trekking path can become very slippery and dangerous, and the region is prone to leeches.

Ans:- The trek to Changey Falls is considered easy to moderate. The path is downhill when going toward the falls, which is quite easy, but the return journey is an uphill climb that can be tiring for those not used to physical exertion. It is manageable for most people with average fitness levels, but senior citizens or people with knee problems should take it slow and use a walking stick if necessary.

Ans:- There are no shops or modern toilet facilities at the base of the waterfall itself. There might be a small tea stall or a basic shop at the last motorable point where you start the trek, but these are not always open. It is highly recommended to carry your own water and snacks, and to use the restroom facilities at your hotel or in Lava before heading out.

Ans:- There is usually no formal entry fee to visit Changey Falls. However, since the road leading to the falls passes through or near the Neora Valley National Park area, you might encounter a forest check-post where a nominal vehicle entry fee or permit fee is required. It is best to check with your driver or local guide in Lava about the current charges before starting your journey.

Ans:- Visiting during the monsoon (June to September) offers a view of the falls in their most powerful state, but it comes with risks. The trail becomes very slippery, and there is a high chance of encountering leeches. The narrow mountain roads to Kolakham can also be prone to landslides during heavy rains. If you choose to visit, do so with a local driver and exercise extreme caution on the trekking path.

Ans:- While there is a small pool at the base of Changey Falls, swimming is generally not recommended due to the force of the water and the slippery rocks. The water is also extremely cold throughout the year. Most visitors enjoy splashing their faces or dipping their feet in the cool water. Always exercise caution and stay away from the direct fall area to avoid any accidents on the wet surfaces.

Ans:- Yes, photography and videography are allowed and highly encouraged, as the falls are incredibly photogenic. The mist from the falling water creates beautiful light effects, and the surrounding lush greenery provides a perfect backdrop. Be careful with your equipment near the water to prevent it from getting wet, and ensure you have a stable footing on the rocks while taking shots.

Ans:- You can take your own car to the parking point near the falls, provided it is a vehicle with high ground clearance like an SUV. The road from Lava to Kolakham and then to the falls is a rough forest road with many potholes and steep turns. Small hatchbacks or sedans are not recommended and might suffer damage. It is often better to hire a local vehicle that is accustomed to these terrains.

Ans:- You can visit the beautiful village of Kolakham, which offers stunning views of Kanchenjunga. Lava Monastery and the Nature Interpretation Centre in Lava are also nearby attractions. For those who enjoy more nature, exploring the fringes of the Neora Valley National Park is a great option. Many tourists combine a visit to Changey Falls with a trip to Lolegaon or Rishop for a complete circuit.
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